JACKFRUIT

Scientific name: Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.

Other names: Langka, nangka

Description:

Jackfruit is cultivated in tropical Asia and belongs to the mulberry family. This evergreen tree can grow to more than 20 m and has leaves that are oblong with a pointed apex and base.  The fruit is green to
greenish-yellow when ripe, oblong with pyramidal projections.  Inside, there are numerous seeds covered with luscious custard yellow pulp.


Parts used: Leaves, fruit, latex, roots, bark

Medicinal Uses and Benefits:

Jackfruit's Root extract (decoction of roots that chopped into small pieces and boiled)
used to treat:

Fever
diarrhea
skin diseases
asthma

Jackfruit's Leaves extract:

Fever
skin diseases, boils
curing woulds
diabetes

Jackfruit's Bark:

It has sedative effect and used as poultice

Jackfruit's Latex:
pharyngitis
opthalmities
dysopia

The latex when mixed with vinegar is used to heal glandular swelling,
abscesses and snakebites.

Jackfruit's Pulp and Seed - tonic

Jackfruit's Ripe fruit:
Laxative

Jackfruit contains flavonoids, vitamin C and is a good source of carotenoids, vitamin B1 and B2.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE 
TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

LEMON GRASS

Scientific name:Cymbopogon citratus

Other names: Camel’s Hay, Geranium Grass, Cochin Grass,takrai, tanglad, Melissa grass, Capim-cidrao, sereh, Fever Tea


Description: Lemon grass is an herb native to tropical Southeast Asia. Though it has a wide variety of therapeutic effects it is commonly known to be used for flavor in soups and teas in Asian cuisines and an ingredient in many Vietnamese and Thai foods.  It has an aromatic citrus flavor with leaves that are green, tall, razor-like blades that grows from a stalk with bulbous lower end.

Parts used: leaves and stem/stalk


Health benefits:

Rich in folic acid and essential vitamins such as Vitamin A, C pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), pyridoxine (vitamin B-6) and thiamin (vitamin B-1) as well as potassium, zinc, calcium, iron, manganese, copper, and magnesium.  Lemon grass is also high in anti-oxidant.

Medicinal properties and uses:

Lemongrass has a plethora of uses medicinally and has been recommended for fever, flu, diarrhea, gas, bowel spasms, vomiting, stomachaches and other pains.as a fungicide. It is also an effective fungicide against Candida infection and lemongrass is known to significantly reduce cholesterol levels.

How to make Lemongrass oil: Boil equal amounts of chopped leaves and stalks
with freshly made coconut oil. Lemongrass oil can also be mixed with other
essential oils such as lavender or jasmine oil.

Lemon grass essential oil can be applied externally to help treat the ff:

Acne (antiseptic and astringent)
Anti-convulsant(against neurotoxins such as strychnine)
Anti-inflammatory
athlete's foot
Candida infections
Carminative (relieves flatulence)
Circulatory disorders
Digestive disorder (diarrhea, stomachache, indigestion)
Fever ( rub lemongrass oil on the forehead and body. Tea, juice or a decoction of lemon grass can also be taken)
Lower back pain
Neuralgia
Rheumatism
Sciatica
Sprains
Tendinitis


Indication: Rub a few drops of lemongrass oil on the skin of affected areas. It is also used in bath as a soothing aromatherapy. Either put some lemongrass oil in bath or put some leaves in a mesh bag and soak in water.

Lemongrass Tea: Boil about 10 leaves in 2 cups of water for 10 to 15 mins. Strain and add sugar to taste.  You may also add a slice of ginger.

Lemongrass Tea can relieve the ff conditions:

Anti-depressant
Anti-inflammatory
Bladder disorder
Congestion/Coughing
Digestive problems (constipation,diarrhea, gas, bowel spasms, vomiting, stomach pains)
Diuretic
Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation)
Fever/Headaches,flu symptoms
Insomnia



THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE
TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

KAPOK

Other names: Java cotton, Java kapok,ceiba

Scientific name: Ceiba pentandra

Description: This is an erect, deciduous tree, 15 m high.  The trunk is cylindrical, usually bearing scattered, large spines.  The branches are in distant whorls, and spread horizontally.  The leaves are compound with 5-8 lanceolate leaflets. 6-15 cm long, pointed on both ends.


Parts Used: flowers, leaves, fruits

Medicinal Properties and Uses:

The bark is used as a vomitive/emetic and diuretic.  It is used to treat fever and diarrhea.  It is also applied on wounds and swollen fingers.

A decoction of the flowers is used for constipation.

An infusion of the leaves is used for cough, hoarseness, intestinal catarrh and urethritis.  the tender leaves are administered for gonorrhea.

The unripe fruit is regarded as a demulcent (soothing medicine; provides a protective coating on mucus membranes) and an astringent.

The tender fruit is used as emollient.

A decoction of the roots is given for chronic dysentery, diarrhea, ascites (abnormal accumulation of serous fluid in the abdominal cavity) and anasarca (edema characterized by the accumulation of serum in the connective tissue of the body).

The gum is an astringent and useful as a styptic (having a harsh acrid, acid flavor).  It is given with milk as a cooling laxative to children.  It is also used for incontinence of urine of children


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Cayenne Peppers

Scientific name: Capsicum annuum

Description:

Densely branched and growing to a large perennial shrub, the capsicum is productive in warm and dry climates and is said to have originated in French Guiana. The flowers are off-white, sometimes purplish color and the fruit is a berry which turns yellow, green or red when ripe. These fruits are dried and grounded to produce these pungent cayenne pepper.  The Cayenne pepper is one of the spices derived from these species of Capsicum.

Capsicum is a catalyst herb.

Part/s Used: Ripe Fruits

Health Benefits:

Cayenne Pepper is high in vitamins and minerals that are needed for healing. It has a rich supply of vitamin C and vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), beta-carotene and carotenes which are antioxidants that helps prevent cancer and cardiovascular diseases. It also contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9 (folic acid), cobalt and zinc.  Cayenne pepper/Capsicum is also very rich in organic calcium and potassium - minerals that are good for the heart.


Medicinal Properties and Uses:
Capsicum or Cayenne pepper is a medicinal and nutritional herb with constituents like capsaicin, oleic, palmitic and stearic acids and have been used as both food and medicine.

For oral medicine:  Put one or two tablespoons of dried and grounded cayenne pepper into warm water.

For liniment (external use): In one pint of cider vinegar, boil 1 Tablespoon of hot pepper. Do not strain and do not place in a bottle while hot.

As a catalyst herb, the cayenne or capsicum will increase the power of all other herbs. The stimulating properties of the cayenne pepper speed up the absorption and effectiveness of any herbs taken in combination with it.

For example:
Combined with garlic & parsley, Cayenne will help lower blood pressure.

Combine Capsicum and Plantain and apply externally to remove splinter and draw out foreign objects embedded in the skin.


Capsicum/cayenne pepper has been proven beneficial for:

Arthritis - Cayenne or capsicum is used externally as a remedy for painful joints by stimulating blood flow to the affected area and reducing inflammation and discomfort. Liniments (see below for the recipe) can be applied everyday to ease pain.


Cardiovascular disease - it significantly lowers serum cholesterol and serum triglycerides. It regulates blood flow and strengthens the arteries, possibly preventing heart attacks.


Chronic fatigue and depression - Capsicum stimulates energy.
Gastric ulcers - it stimulates the protective mucus-forming membranes of the stomach.

Impotence caused by venous insufficiency

Pain relief, vascular headaches - Cayenne/capsicum is rich in salicylates (an analgesic and a natural aspirin-like compounds). Cayenne are rubefacients that warms the body by quickly dilating small capillaries, and increasing circulation.

Psoriasis - Capsaicin is a potent constituent found in cayenne and has been shown to be effective in treating the symptoms of psoriasis.

Sore Throat - a small amount of cayenne pepper sprinkled in water and gargled will cure sore throat.

Toothaches - Pound cayenne pepper and put an oil.  Soak a cotton into the cayenne oil and plug it into the affected tooth.

Wounds - use a poultice and apply on wound for quick healing.



Warning: Don't touch your eyes with your hands after handling Cayenne peppers. This is also counterindicated in individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome or chronic bowel inflammation.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Spinach

Scientific name: Spinacia oleracea

Description:

It is an edible annual flowering plant native to central and southwestern Asia. It grows to a height of up to 30 cm with alternate ovate to triangular-based leaves.  The leaves varies in size with the larger ones at the base of the plant. The flowers are yellow-green that matures into a small, dry, lumpy cluster about 5–10 mm and contain several seeds.

Spinach can be eaten raw in a salad or it can be lightly cooked and eaten as a dish or added to soups or made into green smoothie. It is easy to find spinach in the market and it is easy to grow.

Part used: Leaves

Health Benefits:

Spinach is one of the most nutritious foods available as it provides more nutrients than any other food.  It is renowned for its high iron content, very high in vitamins, minerals and other phytonutrients. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, folate, manganese, calcium, vitamin B2 and vitamin B6. It’s a very good source of protein, dietary fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

Spinach has at least 13 different flavonoid compounds that are good antioxidants and act as anti-cancer substances.


Medicinal uses and properties:

Cardiovascular/ Lowers Blood pressure - It is considered as a heart-healthy food as it is loaded with vitamins C, A and folate which are antioxidants. Folate is believe to convert harmful chemicals into harmless compounds.

Diabetes - The magnesium contained in spinach helps prevent diabetes.

Arthritis, osteoporosis - spinach has anti-inflammatory properties.

Migraine headaches, Asthma - also because of the anti-inflammatory properties present in spinach.

Cancer - fresh spinach abounds in cancer-fighting antioxidants. It contains a number of flavonoid compounds and kaempferol which is a strong antioxidant that prevents the formation of cancerous cells.

Cataract and macular degeneration - the  carotenoid found in spinach that is helpful against these eye diseases.

Soothes burns - The leaves are soaked in hot olive oil or soybean oil. Cooled down and applied on affected area.

Kidney or bladder disease - Crush spinach leaves, put a teaspoon in a cup of boiling water. Cover for 15 mins and strain. It is used as a diuretic and consumed in doses of 2 cups/day.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Cinnamon

Scientific Name: Cinnamomum Zeylanicum

Description:

Cinnamon is the bark and twigs of a number of related plants that have cinnamon oil in it. They are usually small trees with deep green leaves and white blossoms and are grown South Asia and the Middle East region.  When the trees are 6 or 7 years old, the bark is peeled off, dried and rolled into cinnamon sticks and then ground into powder.  Cinnamon has a characteristic flavor and aroma called cinnamonaldehyde that comes from a compound in the essential oil of the bark.

Parts used: Bark

Health Benefits:

Besides using it in cooking, cinnamon is also thought to have health benefits. It contains compounds like tannins, essential oils, and saponins that helps improve general health.

Cinnamon is a great source of manganese, iron, calcium as well as fiber.

Cinnamon is also a favorite in aromatherapy.


Medicinal Properties and Uses:

Herbal cinnamon tea: Boil water, add a cinnamon stick and let it boil for 2 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick.

In traditional Chinese medicine, cinnamon is used as a pain killer and it relieves fever, colds, arthritis, flatulence, nausea, diarrhea, and dysmenorrhea. It's also believed to improve energy, vitality, promotes good
digestion and circulation.  It is used as a remedy for diabetes and is particularly helpful for people who feel hot in their upper body but have cold extremities.

Cinnamon oil has high anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, larvicidal and anti-fungal properties and the cinnamaldehyde content is a proven tranquilizer.

Cinnamon is one of the oldest tonic and uterine stimulant.  It is used as a treatment for PMS and promotes regular, pain-free menstruation.

Precaution:

Because cinnamon is a uterine stimulant, it should not be used in medicinal amounts during pregnancy.

Coriander

Scientific name: Coriandrum sativum

Other name: Cilantro

Description:

Coriander aka cilantro is an annual, umbelliferous plant native to Southeastern Europe.  It is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 3 feet in height, slender and branched.  The leaves are trilobed, green and hairless
and the lowest leaves being stalked and pinnate while the leaflets are roundish and slightly lobed.

The mature plant bears a shortly-stalked umbels (5 to 10 rays) light pink color flowers.  The seed clusters are symmetrical and the seeds are oval about 4-6 mm in diameter, light green and have a disagreeable taste and odor.  When the plants turn brown and becomes pleasantly aromatic, the seeds are ready for harvest.

Since both the leaves and seeds are used as seasoning condiment, the cilantro or coriander is considered both an herb and a spice.

It is also medicinally used as flavouring for purgatives and an ingredient in tincture of senna.


Parts used: Fruits/seeds and fresh leaves


Health Benefits:


    The coriander seeds are excellent source of minerals like calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. It also has Vitamin C and is rich in B-complex vitamins like thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin.


Medicinal properties and uses:

Coriander aka Cilantro has been traditionally been referred to as anti-diabetic plant as it controls blood sugar levels.  It has also been used for its anti-inflammatory properties and antimicrobial properties.

The volatile oil in coriander is high in phytonutrient content such as borneol, camphor, elemol, geraniol, linalool, limonene.  It is rich in flavonoids and contains active phenolic acid compounds.  The coriander
seeds contain many chemical compounds that are known to have anti-oxidant properties and increases the immune system.

Coriander is traditionally used as a stimulant, aromatic and carminative. It is also used for stomach pains and the seeds are known to have  anti-flatulent properties.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE
TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Quinoa (Goosefoot plant)

Scientific name: Chenopodium quinoa

Description:

Quinoa is an amino acid-rich seed ( although commonly considered a grain) with a transparent yellow color. Other varieties range in color from red, purple, orange, pink and even black. There are over 120 species of Quinoabut only three main varieties are cultivated. Cooked quinoa seeds have a fluffy, creamy, slightly crunchy texture and is very nutritious and delicious with a somewhat nutty flavor. The leaves are lobed or triangular and are edible and is similar to beets, swiss chard and spinach. The flower heads are branched with large clusters of seeds.

Health benefits:

Quinoa is rich in minerals like copper, folate, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus and tryptophan. It is also rich in fiber, vitamin E and provides all the nine essential amino acids like lysine and cystine.

Medicinal Properties:

Migraine headaches

Quinoa is a good source of manganese, magnesium, folate and phosphorus that are helpful for migraine headaches. The magnesium & vitamin B2 in quinoa help relax blood vessels and improve the energy metabolism thus reducing the frequency of headache episodes.

Atherosclerosis and other Cardiovascular disorders

This is because as mentioned above Quinoa is a very good source of magnesium - a mineral that relaxes blood vessels. The phytonutrient, lignans, that are abundant in quinoa are also a valuable nutrient to the heart.

Studies show that consumption of whole grain products and dietary fiber has reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart attack.

The mineral manganese also functions as a cofactor for the superoxide dismutase enzyme - an antioxidant. That's why Quinoa also lowers type 2 diabetes risk.

Gallstone Prevention - quinoa is high in insoluble fiber and helps reduce the secretion of excessive bile acids.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Chamomile

Scientific name: Maticaria Recutita

Description:

Chamomile is a flowering plant in the Asteraceae plant family (daisy family). It is an annual, herbaceous plant that originated in south-eastern Europe and Asia but has now spread to all continents.

Chamomile grows around 10-50 feet tall and it's ramified stem reaching up to 60 cm. The leaves are yellow and green, while the hermaphrodite flowers are tubular, golden yellow with bright white rays that bloom in warm regions from May up to late August or early September.

Part used:
Flowers

Medicinal Properties and Uses:

In folk medicine, chamomile has long been used ease spasm and discomfort in the digestive tract.  It is also used to treat a plethora of ailments:

AnxietyAsthma
Canker sores
Colds
Colic
Conjunctivitis, eye irritations
Crohn's disease
Diarrhea
Eczema
Enterocolitis
Fatigue
Fever
Gingivitis
Hemorrhoids
Hyperacid gastritis
Indigestion
Insomnia
Menstrual disorders
Migraine
Neuralgia   
Irritable bowel syndrome
Peptic ulcer
Rheumatism
Sinusitis
Skin irritations
Stomatitis
Ulcerative colitis
Wounds (minor)

The flowers of chamomile contain essential oils, glucides, acids, lipids (emollient), vitamins B1 and C, minerals like calcium, copper, iron, lead, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, silicon, zinc, zirconium.

Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties, antispasmotic, analgesic, antibacterial, antiseptic and disinfecting properties.

It has cicatrizant, emollient and has a calming, sedative effect. Chamomile also contains coumarin that is has anticoagulant or blood-thinning effects. The antitoxin action of chamomile helps eliminates intestinal gasses.

Chamomile comes in tea(infusion), ointment, oil and capsule form.

Chamomile infusion

Put a teaspoon of chamomile flowers in a liter of boiled water. Wait a few  minutes before consuming. The tea is often given to women suffering from menstrual cramps.  Chamomile tea is also used for stomach upset, diarrhea, bowel pain, irritable bowel syndrome, gastroenteritis, intestinal bloating and other gastrointestinal problems.

For colds and sinusitis -Inhale vapors as you are heating the infusion.

The infusion can also be added to the bath water for skin irritations, minor wounds,  skin problems, hemorrhoids and to ease fatigue.

The infusion can also be used to wash conjunctivitis or gargled to relieve toothaches.

Chamomile oil

Fill a clean bottle with chamomile flowers.  Pour in cold-pressed olive oil. Expose it in the sun for 2 weeks.  After that keep the oil in the refrigerator.  Chamomile oil is used to treat psoriasis, eczema, inflamed
skin, infections and other skin conditions.


Chamomile is known to have a soothing and calming effect and is used for insomnia.  Chamomile tea or capsules are used to ease tense muscles, relieve migraine headaches and anxiety.


Contraindication:

People with skin allergies or those who are allergic to ragweed and chrysanthemum may also be allergic to chamomile.

Allergic reactions may be manifested as wheezing, rash, itching, hives and chest tightness.

Chamomile should not be taken during pregnancy or when breast-feeding.

As mentioned, chamomile contains coumarin (anticoagulant or blood-thinning) and should not be combined with warfarin or other medications/supplements that have the same effect and it should not be used by people with bleeding disorders.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Milk Thistle

Scientific name:Silybum marianum, Carduus marianum

Other names: Silymarin, Marian Thistle, Mediterranean Thistle, Mary Thistle, Holy Thistle, Silybum Marianum, Lady's Thistle

Description:

Milk thistle is a flowering herb belonging to the genus silybum Adan., and related to the daisy (Asteraceae) and ragweed family. Members of this genus grow as annual or biennial plants. It is native to  to the Mediterranean regions of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.  The stem is erect, branched and furrowed. At the end of the stem are solitary flower heads that consists of tubular florets. The leaves are large, alternate, toothed and thorny with splashes of white and contains a milky sap.

Part used: Seed

Medicinal Properties and Indications:

For many centuries, milk Thistle is used as a folk remedy for liver and gallbladder disorders and is known to be liver tonics.

Liver conditions known to be treated by Milk Thistle are:
Liver cirrhosis
Jaundice
Viral Hepatitis
Chronic hepatitis
Toxin-induced liver damage

Silymarin is the main active ingredient, a flavonoid found in the seeds that is both an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.  Milk thistle seed extract contain approximately 4% to 6% silymarin.

Milk thistle can be taken as a tea or as supplements.

Known Side Effects:

When taking milk thistle supplements, mild gastrointestinal distress is the most common adverse effect that will be experienced.  Other side effects may include headache, indigestion, itching,  heartburn, diarrhea and joint pain.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Black Currant/Blackcurrant

Other names: Cassis, quinsy berries

Description:

Black currant is a shrub with edible berries that can be found in Northern/Central Europe and Asia.  It has woody branches that grows to a height of 2 meters.  The leaves are deeply lobes and used to improve the
taste and color or Vodka.  The flowers are small and white.  During summer the black currant berries are formed which are small (1 cm in diameter), dark purple to black in color, glossy skin and contains several seeds.

Black currants are added to make cordial, liqueur and beer.  It is very sweet and made into jellies, jams, juice and ice cream or added to desserts, sauces, and salad dips.

Parts used:
Fruits, leaves and seeds (for oil).

Medicinal properties and uses:

Black currants are rich in antioxidants, phytonutrients and vitamins especially Vitamin C. It also contains essential fatty acids like Gamma Linoleic Acid(a very rare Omega-6 essential fatty acid), flavonoids,
proanthocyanidins, cassis polysaccharide (CAPS) and anthocyanins that inhibit the enzymes Cyclo-oxgenase 1 and 2, and reduce inflammation and gives relief to arthritis. Black currants are also rich in potassium having
twice the potassium of bananas.

The oil from the seed of the black currant has linoleic, alpha-linolenic, gamma-linolenic, which are essential fatty acids the our body cannot produce on its own.

Black currant leaves is known for its diuretic property. The leaves are dried to make a tea and used againsts:

Arthritis
Diarrhea
Urinary problems
Bleeding gums

Black currant juice are high in Vitamin C and is used to treat:

Cough
Sore Throats

Black Currant Seed Oil (BCSO) contains gamma-linolenic acid which is a powerful anti-inflammatory used to treat:

Swelling/Inflammation
Pain Relief
Arthritis

The black currant seed oil is also effective for treating a wide variety of disorders like:

Diabetes
High Blood Pressure
Gastritis/Ulcers
Allergies

Black currant may also help prevent cancer.

BURDOCK

Scientific name: Arctium lappa (Great Burdock); Arctium Minus (Lesser Burdock)

Other names: Cocklebur, Gobo root, Clot bur, Burr Seed,  Thorny Burr, Fox's
Clote, Beggar's Buttons, Cockle Buttons

Description:

Burdock is an herb with prickly seeds that grows freely by the roadside, hedgerows and wastelands.

Burdock have large about a foot long, heart-shaped or wavy leaves that lay on the ground. The upper leaves are much smaller and the stems about 3 to 4 feet long.   In the early summer, the stem sends up round heads of pink, white or purple flowers. This turns into prickly seeds that cling to clothing and animal fur.

There are various subspecies of burdock depending on its appearance like the size of the flower-heads, length of the stalks etc.


Parts used: roots, seeds and leaves


Medicinal properties:

Burdock has many medicinal properties and has been used in many herbal remedies.

Traditionally, burdock has been used as a remedy for acne, measles, arthritis, gout, rheumatism, tonsillitis, sore throat and colds. 

The root of the burdock is edible and used as a diuretic as well a blood purifier by removing toxins from the blood.

The seeds can be used as a diaphoretic which cleanses the body of toxins and treat gallbladder, liver and kidney disorders.


Burdock is also used in oncology today. But the seeds of the burdock when soaked in milk has been used traditionally to cure cancer. The extract from the pounded seeds or leaves are used to soothe aching joints and also treats skin problems like acne, eczema, psoriasis and other scalp problems.

The Japanese used Burdock as a source of vitamins and other nutrients.  It contains flavonoids, arcigen, calcium, iron, chlorogenic acid, essential oil, lactone, mucilage, polyacetylenes, potassium, resin, tannin and
polyacetylenes which are known to be effective antifungal and antibacterial agents.

In many places, burdock is eaten as a vegetable for it has the same taste as the asparagus.  It is also eaten as a salad with oil and vinegar.

In China, burdock is used as an aphrodisiac and is found effective in treating impotence.





THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Agar Agar

Scientific name: Gelidiella Acerosa, genera Gelidium and Gracilaria and Sphaerococcus euchema

Description:

Agar-agar is extracted from marine red algae. The seaweeds (Sphaerococcus Euchema and Gelidium) that grows to 15 to 25 cm high are mostly found off the Pacific coast and the coast of South Africa.  Fronds are elongated, cylindrical, soft or subcartilaginous and dichotomously branched.

The seaweeds are laid out along the shore to get bleached and dried. By boiling them in water the mucilage can be strained and filtrated.  After which it is dried again under the sun.

You'll find the Agar Agar most often in the form of white powder or as a clear bar.  It has almost no color, no taste, calorie-free and has 80% percent fiber.

One can also blanch the entire plant and eat as salad.

Parts Used: Seaweed extract and the whole plant.

Medicinal properties and Uses:

Agar agar contains gelose, protein, galactose, pentose, fructose; iodine, iron and other
trace elements and minerals

This seaweed rich in soluble fiber that is very good for dieters. Agar agar absorbs water making you feel full. So, munching on agar agar before each meal prevents you from overeating.

Constipation - as agar agar is rich in soluble fiber it is used as a bulk laxative because it
absorbs water in the intestines  resulting in increased bowel activity.

Diabetes - Agar Agar will capture the sugars, fats and toxins.

Sores and Swollen knee joints - An agar agar poultice is used for swollen knee joints and sores.

It is also use for menorrhagia, leucorrhea and other intestinal and bladder difficulties.

An agar agar decoction given for dysentery and diarrhea as a folk medicine. It is also found
to be useful for coughs and other pulmonary complaints.

High doses may cause flatulence.

Agar agar readily forms a gel and is used as a stabilizer, thickening, gelling, bulking agent and food additive.

THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE
TRYING THIS AND AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Lantana

Scientific Name : Lantana Camara

Common Names : coronitas, Lantana Weed, Wild Sage, Shrub Verbena, Yellow Sage, Kantutay

  
Description:
Lantana is a perennial flowering plants native to tropical regions of the Americas and Africa. It is a somewhat hairy shrub that when bruised gives a spicy pungent odor. The aromatic flowers are borne in clusters and are a mixture of red, yellow, blue, lilac, white and orange florets.  The leaves are pointed at the tip, rounded at the base and toothed in the margins.

Lantana is an introduced species in the Australian-Pacific region and it is a low-maintenance, gregarious plant that can grow up to 1.2 m high.

Despite it's nickname, lantana is not related to the Sage family instead they are in the same family and are close relatives of Verbena.  Another plant named, wild lantanas is also not related and belong to the genus Abronia.


Parts Used:
leaves, roots, flowers

CAUTION: Lantana seeds/green berries are known to be toxic.
  

Medicinal Uses and Properties:

LEAVES:

Pound leaves and place on skin or put a handful of fresh leaves in a mesh bag and dip in your water bath.
soothes insect stings, the itch of chicken pox and measles and other skin eruptions, cuts, scrapes, ulcerations and scabies.  The water bath also relieves symptoms of rheumatism

In folklore, the crushed leaves of the lantana is effective in snakebite case.  It is directly applied on the bitten area.

As a tea, lantana leaves can be used for relief from headaches, fever, flu, coughs, colds toothaches and indigestion.  It also relieves the symptoms of rheumatism and other joint pains.

Use pounded fresh leaves applied as poultice for sprains, wounds and contusions.

To use as an inhalant for respiratory problems:

Pound lantana leaves. Boil in water for 5 minutes using a tight fitting lid. Uncover and inhale the steam directly from the pot or pour into a container with a narrow mouth and inhale the steam.

The dried lantana leaves that have been burned in a glass jar is also known to be a natural mosquito repellent. On the other hand, the crushed leaves is used as a furniture polish. 

The lantana leaves are also known to be antiphlogistic, anti-dermatoses and have a cooling effect.


ROOTS:

The roots of the lantana are known to be refrigerant and antifebrile.
The decoction of dried roots are used for gonorrhea, cough, mumps, malaria and influenza.


FLOWERS:

Flowers known to be hemostatic and the decoction of dried flowers is used for hemoptysis and pulmonary tuberculosis.



THOUGH THE CONTENT HAD BEEN USED AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

CHICKWEEDS

Scientific names and their common names:

Stellaria media (Common chickweed)
Stellaria pubera (Star chickweed)
Cerastium vulgatum (Mouse-ear Chickweed)

Description:

Widespread in temperate zones, Chickweed is an herb that grows all year along roadsides, coastal cliffs, riverbanks and lawns.  It is a low-growing plant with tiny white flowers and slender delicate stems.  Chickweed has pointed oval leaves that folds every night over the tender buds and new shoots thus the term 'Sleep of Plants'. Its flowers bloom between May and July and can be used fresh or dried for later herb use.

Caution: There are similar-looking weeds called Euphorbia maculata which are poisonous. They are spotted spurge with different flowers and white, milky sap. Another weed called Polygonum arenastrum has slender stem with alternate leaves that is singly configured.

Nutrition: Chickweed is very nutritious and is an excellent source of vitamins A, D, B complex, C, and minerals like iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, manganese, sodium, silica, copper and selenium.

Chickweeds' stems, leaves and flowers are edible and make a tasty addition to salads or cook them like spinach.  They, by the way, resemble the taste of spinach. It can also be added in lasagna and chickweeds are in fact a component of a cream cheese spread.

For the Mouse-ear chickweed variety, one needs to cook this because it's so hairy.

Medicinal properties and indications:

The major plant constituents in Chickweed are coumarins, oleic-acid, genistein, hentriacontanol,  flavonoids, rutin and triterpenoid saponins.

The omega-6 fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid is also found in chickweed which is essential for skin and hair growth, reproductive system, bone health and helps reduce inflammation.

Chickweed is used in alternative medicine as a laxative, astringent, carminative, diuretic (but won't deplete the body of minerals), expectorant, vulnerary, galactogogue, emmenagogue and is a remedy for obesity. Because of its mucilage content, chickweed also has demulcent properties that soothe the mucous membranes.


As an Infusion:

How to prepare an Infusion:

In 1 cup boiling water
Add 1 Tablespoons dried herb or 2 Tablespoon fresh leaves
Steep for 10 min

Used to treat asthma, bronchitis, coughs and hoarseness.
Beneficial in the treatment of kidney complaints, UIT, cystitis


As a decoction:

It is used for post-partum depurative, galactogogue, emmenagogue,  and circulatory tonic. It is also used to relieve constipation.

Externally it is used to treat rheumatic pains, wounds and ulcers.


As a Poultice (finely chopped chickweed): relieves any kind of roseola, skin irritation, minor burns, rashes, eczema.  Chickweed is an effective antihistamine.



THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE
TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Gotu Kola

Latin Name: Centella asiatica

Other Names: Indian Pennywort, Pennywort, Jal Brahmi, Centella


Description:

 Centella herb is a slender creeper with pinkish to red flowers.  The leaves are small and thin that are borne on pericladial petioles, kidney-shaped or heart-shaped at the base and can reach a width of 1 inch and a length of 6 inches. The Gotu Kola/Centella puts out numerous small roots and growing vertically down.

Centella/gotu kola can be eaten as a salad or vegetable dish or used in sweet pennywort drinks and other health drinks.


Parts used: whole plant


Medicinal properties and indication:

Centella has been used as a medicinal herb for centuries in India, China and Indonesia. It is used to treat wounds, improve mental clarity and  used for Alzheimer's disease and senility.

The sap of the leaves mixed with vaseline or oil can be applied over the affected area as poultice. It is used on wounds and skin sores and treat skin conditions such as leprosy, eczema and psoriasis. It is also use for anti-aging and for tired-looking skin as it is believed to be able to renew the collagen.  The saponins present in centella also prevent scar formation.

Centella is used as an antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory

Decoction of leaves is used as diuretic and is useful for gonorrhea.  It is also considered emmenagogue, stimulant and tonic.

Seeds are used for dysentery, fever and headache.

Roots are used to improve blood circulation and correct venous insufficiency.

In Ayurvedic, Centella is used for depression and anxiety.

Gotu Kola/Centella is rich in Vitamin A, B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (Niacin) and B6 (pyridoxine).  It also has zinc, magnesium, calcium and rich in volatile oils.

MACA

Scientific Name: Lepidium peruvianum; Lepidium meyenii

Common names:
Maca root, Peruvian ginseng, maka

Description:

Maca is a herbaceous biennial plan used as a root vegetable and a medicinal herb. It is shaped like a radish and is native to the Andes Mountains in South America (Peru and Bolivia).  Though it is
also called a peruvian ginseng, maca is not a member of the ginseng family. 

Maca is used as a folk remedy to increase stamina, energy, and sexual virility and fertility. This root crop is consumed as food for humans (eaten as any other vegetable food) as well as livestock. It is taken as a as powdered maca root that can also be added to smoothies, juice, and shakes and is good for raw food diet. Maca is also available as a nutritional supplement (liquid extract or pill form).

Medicinal properties and uses:

Maca root contains amino acids, sterols, alkaloids,  cardiotonic glycosidesuridine, saponins and other substance beneficial to the body and compounds that affects the central nervous system.

It is rich in minerals like potassium, calcium and iodine.

Maca maybe beneficial for the ff:

* improve sperm production, sperm motility, and semen volume
* help increase libido
* enhance fertility
*  alleviates symptoms of menopause as it eases anxiety and depression in postmenopausal women
* increase energy and stamina
* often touted as an aphrodisiac


Little is known about the side effects of maca root.

THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED
AND HAD BEEN USED AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL
BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID
SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Damiana

Scientific Names: Turnera aphrodisiaca, Turnera diffusa

Other names: Herba de la pastora, Mexican damiana, Old woman's broom

Description:

Damiana is a relatively small shrub which is native to Central and Southern America. It has  pale green leaves with small yellow flowers and hairy ribs. Damiana has strong odor which reminds some people of chamomile and fruits that taste like figs.


Medicinal uses and Properties:

The leaves are dried and made into tea for its relaxing effect.

Damiana leaves have been used as an aphrodisiac
and to boost sexual potency.

It has also been used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and mild depression.

Damiana has been used in traditional folk medicine for centuries for the ff:

Mild purgative
diuretic properties
improve digestion and to treat constipation
energy tonic and stimulant
an aphrodisiac for both men and women



THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED
AND HAD BEEN USED AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL
BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID
SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.